David Gene Richards, 79, of Mishawaka, Indiana, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2025. Born on January 6, 1946, in Mishawaka, Indiana, Dave was the beloved son of the late Robert and Dorothy (Story) Richards.
Dave proudly served his country in the United States Navy before beginning a long and successful career in sales within the machine tool industry. Known for his tireless work ethic, sense of humor and his unique way of telling a story, he built lifelong relationships both professionally and personally.
On May 25, 1968, Dave married the love of his life, Nancy (Bottorff), and together they built a beautiful life centered around faith, family, and love. He was a devoted father to Leslie (Andy) Middleton, David (Laurie) Richards, and a cherished grandfather to Ireland (Wes) Blank, Maggie Middleton, Jake Middleton, Matt (Morgan) Riddle, and Jamie (Scott) Wesolowski. He also leaves behind two adored great-grandchildren Maddox Riddle and Maxwell Riddle along with numerous grand pets.
Dave was very proud of his grandchildren. He drove a well-worn path between Mishawaka and Indianapolis to attend all of their various school and sporting events. When saying goodbye, Dave would shower each grandkid with multiple kisses then drives away honking his horn until he was out of sight.
Dave was a man of deep faith and a long-standing member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. He was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. As a lifelong Notre Dame basketball fan, he rarely missed a game and was always ready to talk sports. In his free time, Dave enjoyed hitting the golf course, often combining his love of the game with his love of good company.
He will be remembered for his selflessness, and for his genuine kindness.
Visitation will be held on Monday, June 16, 2025, from 3:00 PM -7:00 PM at Hahn Funeral Home, 505 W 8th St, Mishawaka, IN. Service will be held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with visitation one hour prior, in the Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, family asks please make charitable donation to any of the following:
Ronald McDonald House South Bend, Shriners, Center for the Homeless, St. Jude’s, Salvation Army, Food Bank of Northern Indiana.
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